After volunteering in HVAF’s clothing pantry, Karen Thomas, an Army veteran, saw the need to raise the clothing racks higher off the ground to allow for more clothes to be stacked. She asked her husband, Bill, for help her with the project and together they purchased the materials needed. 

Karen began volunteering at HVAF in January. Every Tuesday and Thursday she sorts and stocks donations and makes sure the pantry is organized. 

After her divorce, she faced some financial uncertainties. “I faced poverty for a brief period of time, and realized it can happen to anyone in any circumstance.” She feels as though anyone who serves our country should not have to face homelessness. 

Karen served our country for two years in the Army and five years in the National Guard. She knows her heart is in the right place to serve those in need.